Browse Articles

EEG microstate alterations in Parkinson’s disease dementia

Barriers to and facilitators of adherence to evidence-based standard antimicrobial treatment guidelines among physicians in Ethiopia: a formative qualitative study

Abstract Rational antimicrobial prescribing is critical to curb antimicrobial resistance, yet adherence to standard antimicrobial treatment guidelines remains inconsistent in Ethiopia. Understanding the barriers and facilitators influencing physicians’ adherence is essential to inform context-appropriate interventions. We conducted a formative qualitative study from April to June 2023 in 20 public hospitals across four Ethiopian regions. Using maximum variation purposive sampling, 47 physicians participated in in-depth interviews. Data were analyzed using the Theoretical Domains Framework embedded within the COM-B model, with thematic coding in MAXQDA and reporting guided by COREQ. Physicians faced multiple barriers to standard antimicrobial treatment guidelines adherence. The guidelines were often bulky, outdated, and misaligned with patient needs. Limited training, low confidence, and resistance from senior clinicians further reduced adherence. Delayed dissemination, restricted access to medicines, heavy clinical workloads, and inconsistent practices in private facilities compounded these challenges. Facilitators supporting adherence included peer collaboration, routine clinical audits, trust in locally developed guidelines, and professional motivation. Study participants recommended developing smartphone application of standard antimicrobial treatment guidelines for point-of-care access. Study participants highlighted digital solutions, such as mobile STG applications, to enhance accessibility and recommended interventions including training, digital access, audits, and policy enforcement. Adherence to standard treatment guidelines is influenced by individual, institutional, and system-level factors. Updating and digitalizing guidelines, integrating adherence into continuous professional development training, strengthening institutional support, and implementing policy measures are key strategies to improve adherence and rational antimicrobial prescription.

Establishing baselines for echolocating bat activity at wind farms in mainland Southeast Asia

Abstract Efforts to reduce bat fatalities caused by collisions with wind turbines in Southeast Asia are hampered by a lack of information on bat activity and factors influencing this at wind farms in the region. To address this deficit, we employed acoustic detectors to establish a baseline for bat activity at wind turbines in southern Vietnam for one year. Fieldwork confirmed the local occurrence of 22 bat species, whereas 11 were registered at the turbines. Bat activity at the turbines was greatest in May–October, although moderate-to-high and high levels of activity frequently occurred every month. Our findings suggest that rain and temperature may have limited utility for refining curtailment in the study area because they do not markedly reduce bat activity. However, this is unlikely to be true of the many areas experiencing greater rainfall and/or distinct winter periods in Southeast Asia. In demonstrating that increased windspeeds significantly reduce bat activity, our results also indicate curtailment at low wind speeds will be effective at reducing bat fatalities at wind farms in the region. As the first publicly available study to report bat activity and factors influencing this at a windfarm in Southeast Asia however, much remains to be learnt.

Mmp2 regulates basement membrane remodeling and dedifferentiation of the visceral musculature during Drosophila metamorphosis

Abstract The basement membrane (BM) is a specialized extracellular matrix that surrounds most tissues and organs. Remodeling of the BM is critical for morphogenesis and to control tissue homeostasis. During Drosophila metamorphosis, most tissues undergo apoptosis and become histolyzed to be replaced by progenitor cells to generate adult structures, but the visceral musculature trans-differentiates to give rise to new adult muscles. The molecular mechanisms of the BM remodeling during this extensive tissue reorganization are poorly understood. Here, we identified Matrix metalloprotease 2 ( Mmp2 ) as a key regulator of BM remodeling in visceral musculature. We find that Mmp2 is localized when the BM is degraded and that Mmp2 is required for degradation of the major BM components. In addition, Mmp2 is important for survival and tissue metamorphosis. Our results suggests that Mmp2-mediated BM remodeling is a prerequisite for metamorphosis and visceral muscle dedifferentiation.

Near space hyperspectral interferometric imaging image quality assessment with a physically grounded dataset

Analysis and research on quality defects of two-color moulded automotive interior parts based on IMD technology

Ecology and demographic structure of an extinct ibex population in late Upper Palaeolithic Italian Alps

Abstract Alpine Upper Palaeolithic contexts exhibit specialised subsistence strategies, heavily dependent on Capra ibex . Among them, the rock shelter Riparo Dalmeri stands out, with C. ibex dominating faunal remains across all occupation phases, spanning the Pleistocene-Holocene transition. This evidence positions Riparo Dalmeri as a key site for exploring the interaction between human groups and C. ibex during this period of significant climatic and cultural shifts in human evolution. Here, we present the first multidisciplinary study on Late Palaeolithic C. ibex teeth from Riparo Dalmeri, integrating direct radiocarbon dating, stable isotope (δ 13 C, δ 18 O) and 87 Sr/ 86 Sr analyses, proteomic, and aDNA data. We generated the earliest aDNA sequences for C. ibex and contextual evidence on mobility, seasonality, and sex ratios. We found that most C. ibex were local to the area despite consistent human presence. They reveal significant dietary differences between sexes as well as increased seasonality at the Pleistocene-Holocene transition. Our results identify Riparo Dalmeri as belonging to an extinct branch of the ibex mtDNA phylogeny, offering unprecedented insights into ibex ecology and evolution that resonate with present-day issues on the conservation of this species in the face of climate change.

Sustainable lightweight polymer concrete composite through partial replacement of aggregates with ABS plastic waste and aerogel

Effect of taxonomical distance and scriptaid on iSCNT embryo development in suidae

First experimental insights into the ex situ cultivation of Seseli Resinosum in vertical gardens

Abstract Vertical garden systems represent an innovative approach that simulates rocky habitats, which are often characterized by high species diversity and endemism. In this study, we experimentally evaluated the performance of two vertical garden systems as an ex situ conservation strategy to ensure the sustainability of Seseli resinosum, a local endemic species of Düzce Province. In the first phase of this four-stage study, S. resinosum was monitored in its natural ecosystem for one vegetation period, and relevant data were collected. In the second phase, the species was collected and cultivated under controlled conditions. During the third and fourth phases, individuals were transplanted into two different vertical garden modules, where subsequent monitoring was conducted. Ecological trait analyses revealed that S. resinosum exhibits strong similarities with rocky-habitat species such as Hypericum perforatum, Silene italica, and Scabiosa columbaria, and Origanum vulgare. The results demonstrated that felt-based systems are unsuitable for the ex situ conservation of S. resinosum due to insufficient moisture retention and thermal buffering. In contrast, pot-based vertical garden systems supported successful vegetative and reproductive development. These findings indicate that modular pot-based vertical systems should be preferred over felt-based designs for the ex situ conservation of endemic drought-tolerant species under comparable changing climatic conditions.

The Caspase-1-EGR4 axis regulates macrophage repolarization in acute myeloid leukemia cells

Abstract The polarization of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) toward an M2-like phenotype critically promotes acute myeloid leukemia (AML) progression. Building on the clinical observation that Caspase-1 (CASP1) expression is elevated in AML and correlates with M2 macrophage abundance, we identify a novel signaling axis in AML cells, involving CASP1 and the transcription factor early growth response protein 4 (EGR4), that orchestrates macrophage polarization. Knockdown (KD) of CASP1 in human AML cells (THP-1, MOLM-13) shifted their secretome, which consequently skewed macrophage polarization away from the M2 phenotype at multiple levels. Mechanistically, transcriptomic sequencing revealed that CASP1 KD significantly upregulated EGR4 expression. Crucially, EGR4 interference partially reversed the macrophage-polarizing effects of CASP1 KD, establishing EGR4 as an essential downstream effector. In a xenograft model using NOD/SCID mice—a defined system for studying human AML-macrophage crosstalk—CASP1 KD potently suppressed tumor growth. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed a remodeled microenvironment characterized by reduced proliferation (Ki67), upregulated EGR4, suppression of the M2-associated IL-10/p-STAT3 pathway and CD206, alongside a concomitant increase in M1-associated marker CD86. In conclusion, our integrated analysis delineates a novel AML cell-intrinsic pathway wherein CASP1 represses EGR4, thereby enabling an M2-like macrophage phenotype via the IL-10/p-STAT3 pathway. The identification of this CASP1-EGR4 axis identifies it as a promising therapeutic target for reshaping the immunosuppressive microenvironment in AML.

Upregulation of IL-32γ in endothelial cells promotes macrophage recruitment and inflammatory progression in atherosclerosis

Sustainable composite insulator for thermal, moisture, and electromagnetic shielding using recycled waste polymers/bimetallic MOF-grown porous carbon

The stray cat exposure to parabens in highly urbanized environment

Eco-enhanced silicone rubber composites reinforced with micro and nano iron slag and TiO₂ for thermal stability and radiation protection

Abstract Silicone rubber (SR) is doped with micro- and nano-sized particles of waste iron slag-titanium dioxide mixture with different weight percentages. Linear attenuation coefficient (LAC) for studied samples was measured using a NaI (Tl) scintillation detector with energy from 0.0595 to 1.332 MeV. The increase of TiO₂ concentration against Fe slag increases the values of LAC; also, the nano samples showed better performance than the micro one. The experimental results obtained were compared theoretically with XCOM software. The comparison examined the validity of experimental results where the relative deviation ranged between 0.5% and 3% for micro size. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed that the sizes of iron slag and TiO₂ nanoparticles were 30 ± 5 nm and 43 ± 5 nm, respectively. The structural morphology of prepared samples was employed by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and indicated the homogeneity of the composite, on the other hand, the distribution of nanoparticles. Thermogravimetric (TGA) tests make it evident that greater thermal stability results from increased filler concentrations, particularly nano-sized fillers. Mass attenuation coefficient (MAC) and other radiation parameters such as mean free path (MFP), half value layer (HVL), and tenth value layer (TVL) were also measured. Moreover, equivalent atomic number (Z eq ) and buildup factors (EBF and EABF) were calculated.

An integrated cubic Pythagorean fuzzy MAIRCA model with novel variation coefficient similarity measure for food safety risk assessment

Identification and validation of prognostic genes associated with integrative stress response in lung adenocarcinoma and construction of the risk models

Robust sensorless control of high speed PMSM drives under low carrier ratios and parameter uncertainties

Characterizing alterations in attention networks under high mental workload

Abstract With the rapid development of modern society, occupational populations commonly face work states characterized by high mental workload (HMW). HMW can rapidly mobilize and deplete an individual’s cognitive resources within a short timeframe. As attention constitutes a fundamental cognitive quality, it is inevitably impacted by HMW, leading to issues such as impaired attentional function and decreased task performance. This study aimed to investigate the characteristics of alterations in attention network under HMW. Participants were recruited from a medical university using convenience sampling. The 1-back Stroop (BS) cognitive task was employed to induce an HMW state. The Attention Network Test-Revised (ANT-R) was completed before and after the induction of the HMW to assess attention network behavior. Eye tracking was assessed using an eye tracker, and subjective assessment was conducted using a visual analog scale (VAS). Statistical analysis was performed using a paired t-test or Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Subjective VAS ratings showed significant increases in mental fatigue (MF), mental effort (ME), mental stress (MS), boredom, and mind wandering (MW) following HMW induction compared to baseline. Behavioral results showed that, compared with before HMW state induction, there were significant differences in alert (sustained attention for maintaining arousal), moving+engaging (selective attention for adjusting and focusing on valid stimuli), flanker conflict (directional conflict between target stimuli and surrounding distracting stimuli) and location conflict (directional conflict between target stimuli and stimulus locations) changes. Alert efficiency values decreased significantly, while moving+engaging, flanker and location conflict values increased significantly. No significant differences were observed in the number of correct trials. Eye tracking results showed that, compared with the state before HMW induction, there were significant differences in average saccade duration and blink count, with a notable increase in both. The ANT-R demonstrates utility both as an experimental paradigm for assessing attention networks and as a behavioral indicator for evaluating HMW. Under the HMW state, significant changes were observed in a subset of behavioral, subjective rating scale, and eye-tracking indicators related to the attention network. This study validated the effectiveness of the BS cognitive task paradigm in inducing the HMW and provided new experimental evidence for revealing the characteristics of attention network changes in the HMW, laying the foundation for the development of assessment and intervention strategies.

Vaccination trends and operational challenges in Peste des Petits Ruminants eradication in Ethiopia

Abstract Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) is a major transboundary disease in Ethiopia, where the national goal is eradication by 2027. However, evidence on vaccination performance and operational challenges remains limited. This study assessed vaccination trends over six years (September 2018–August 2024) and conducted surveys with animal health professionals (AHPs) (January–May 2024) to identify key enabling factors and constraints influencing eradication efforts in the North Shewa Zone. The findings revealed that a risk-based vaccination strategy (RBVS) has been implemented since 2018, focusing on high-risk areas and employing rapid antigen detection tests to confirm outbreaks. Once an outbreak is confirmed, AHPs collaborate with regional coordinators to isolate at-risk populations and administer a live attenuated PPR vaccine. Over the study period, 62 vaccination campaigns were conducted, averaging 10.3 campaigns per year. The highest number occurred in 2019 (16 campaigns, 25.81%), while the lowest was in 2022 (one campaign). Kewet district recorded the highest number of campaigns (six), whereas six districts received no vaccinations. A total of 2,917,330 small ruminants were vaccinated, with Minjar-Shenkora district reporting the highest number (384,989 animals). The year 2023 saw the peak in vaccination coverage, with 1,284,339 animals vaccinated. The study identified factors affecting eradication efforts, with key enablers including a national policy (82.6%), sufficient vaccine production (71.74%), and adequate vaccination tools (80.43%). Major challenges included budget constraints (84.78%) and security concerns (65.22%), along with operational issues such as lack of animal identification, absence of post-vaccination sero-monitoring (PVS), high herd mobility, and rapid turnover of young stock. In conclusion, these challenges may compromise vaccination effectiveness and hinder eradication efforts. Nevertheless, strong regional commitment and enabling factors provide a promising foundation for progress. To enhance PPR control and achieve eradication, the study recommends strengthening surveillance, improving post-vaccination sero-monitoring, optimizing vaccine distribution, and addressing key operational barriers.